Bristol University, Geography Building Library

The building is a traditional Victorian construction with a nice high ceiling. The tall deep windows were also a stand out feature of the space which also presented a problem. There was a need for acoustic suppression in the space but clearly a conventional ceiling system would not work with the high window lines. It was decided to use suspended feature islands of acoustic panels to add visual interest but also to allow the perimeter areas space to breath. The challenge was how to integrate an effective and efficient lighting scheme with this.

Spectral lighting provided an answer from its Stora-Akoustic series. The range offers high output LED modules that can be used in curved or straight line extrusions. It was decided to create a variance of squares and circles that were deep enough to incorporate a high density acoustic infill material but sleep enough not to destroy sight lines across the space. The light versions were supplemented by additional plain acoustic panels to match them in size and style. The luminaire versions also features up lighting elements to accentuate the height of the ceiling.

Some panels also incorporated light sensors which provided energy savings along with the control system also supplied by Spectral. Additionally emergency LED lighting heads were also integrated into these to provide the buildings safety needs.

The resulting effect is one of a dramatic tall space with acoustics and lighting appearing to hover in space. The circles and squares integrate nicely with the contemporary angular and organic shaped furniture to provide a highly contemporary look in a classic building. The space is very uniformly lit in all dimensions allowing the size of the room to be fully realised. The acoustic suppression ensures a peaceful and calm environment for the students.

Recent Spectral Projects

The Rowe Central House

HALO Bristol

The Bindery

Chivas Brothers Bottling Facility

John Robertson Architects

Gallery

Products Used

Stora-LK

Stora-LK

A suspended ring of light, available in four standard diameters with Direct only and Direct / Indirect options.
H140-Profil

H140-Profil

The H140 profile has been specially developed for the purpose of creating large continuous light that can be straight or curved.

Spectral Projects

John Robertson Architects

John Robertson Architects

When JRA decided they were going to refurbish their offices, they evaluated ORTO at Spectral’s show space in Clerkenwell
AHMM Architects

AHMM Architects

Leading London architects firm, AHMM, wanted to create a feature look for their newly refurbished reception ...
Wolfson College Buttery

Wolfson College Buttery

Oxford UniversityWolfson College was founded in 1966 and is the largest and most international of the Oxford ...
St Mary Redcliffe Church, Bristol

St Mary Redcliffe Church, Bristol

St. Mary Redcliffe is an Anglican parish church located in Bristol Temple Meads. The church building was ...